Epsom salt is a totally different compound from table salt in spite of its name. It is termed “salt” due to its chemical structures. Epsom salt has a similar appearance to table salt, but its taste is completely different from table salt. Many people usually consume Epsom salt by dissolving it in water to make an Epsom solution and drink it. This solution has magnesium and sulfate ions, which are very important in the body. Magnesium helps to regulate enzymes in the body. Sulfate is crucial for several biological processes. Despite the benefits of Epsom salt, people with heart or kidney diseases, children, and pregnant women should not use Epsom salt. The following are uses of Epsom salt.
1. Body aches
Epsom salt is commonly used to treat body aches. The skin absorbs magnesium and other compounds that help to ease pain and aches caused by inflammation and tension. It also removes toxins from the body to relieve bruises, swelling, and sprains.
2. Stress relief and sleep aid
Magnesium deficiency in your body will result in low levels of serotonin; this will lead to sadness, loss of appetite, and sleep. Epsom salt will aid the production of serotonin when you soak in its solution. The magnesium in the salt will help to reduce stress as well as improve your moods. It will also help you to have a good sleep. Some studies also indicate that Epsom salt can benefit people who are suffering from Lyme disease.
3. Healthy feet
Epsom salt can be useful to relax tired feet. Impressively, it can also treat the toenail and athlete’s feet. You need to add half a cup to warm water, then soak your feet.
4. Constipation relieve
In mild constipation, Epsom salt can be a useful laxative. However, it is important to consult a physician before consuming anything internally.
5. Sunburn relieve
We may spend much time on the beach and be affected by much sun exposure. People normally use aloe Vera to ease sunbaked skin. Hopefully, Epsom salt can also do the same due to its anti-inflammatory properties. You will need to combine. Two tablespoons of Epsom salt and a cup of water. Spray the solution on the affected area and enjoy your day.
6. Exfoliate
Exfoliates or spa treatments can be very expensive. Impressively, Epsom salt is also a great exfoliate. It is useful in removing dead skin and impurities.
7. Acne treatment
Epsom salt is also great in treating acne. It has anti-fungal, antiviral, and antibacterial properties making it an excellent treatment for acne. You need to combine a teaspoonful of Epsom salt and your normal facial cleanser, then wash before bed.
8. Banish blackheads
As Epsom salt clears blemishes and removes dead skin, it is also fantastic in extracting blackheads. You need a teaspoonful of Epsom salt, four drops of iodine, and ½ a cup of hot water. Mix these substances, then stir until they form a solution. Wait until they were slightly cool, then massage the solution on the affected area. Dry completely before washing with warm water, then pat dry.
9. Healthy hair
Apart from benefiting your body, Epsom salt can also work well on your hair. You will require hairspray, Epsom salt, water, and lemon juice. The Epsom salt is useful in removing excess oil hence preventing hair from weighing down.
10. Moisturizing hand wash
Many people love to keep their hands soft. In case you are one of them, mix Epsom salt with baby or olive oil. Put your moisturizing hand cleanser by your sink and well close in bottles.
11. Cold and flu relief
When you soak in an Epsom bath, you may boost the immune system of your body. You may also increase the number of white blood cells, which are vital to fighting infections. Epsom baths will also ease aches and relax muscles hence promoting proper sleep and helping in fighting infections.
12. Poison ivy relief
Epsom salt helps to relieve poison ivy by relieving swelling and irritation. You are required to soak a cotton washcloth in a solution of Epsom salt and water. Ring it out and then apply it to the affected region.
13. Bug bite relief
Bug bites may be very annoying. Impressively, Epsom salt is useful in relieving bug bites. Just mix half a cup of Epsom salt and half a cup of water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution in the affected area. This solution can also relieve other types of itchy skin.
14. Washing pots and pans
The rough texture of Epsom salt crystals can be useful in getting rid of stuck-on food without damaging your cookware. Just pour less salt into your pans and pots, then scrub them.
15. Grout cleaner
Mix an equal amount of Epsom salt with liquid dish detergent to make an effective grout and tile cleaner. Apply the mixture to the stained kitchen or bathroom. Leave it to soak for some minutes before scrubbing grime off, then rinse clean.
16. Give your fish a healing bath
Fish with magnesium deficiency, bladder disorder, dropsy, and constipation will greatly benefit from Epsom salt soak. Just add a tablespoonful of the salt to one gallon of aquarium water in a container like a bucket. Stir to make a solution, then add fish and leave them in the solution for 30 minutes. In case they show signs of discomfort, return them back to the fish tank.
17. Regenerate a car battery
Epsom salt can also improve the life of your battery. Mix the salt with warm water to form a paste, then add it to every battery cell.
18. Healthier plants
In case you notice your plants are turning yellow, they might be suffering from magnesium deficiency.
Epsom salt has magnesium hence may greatly benefit your plants. Just add one teaspoonful to a gallon of water. Spray the solution to your plants until they soak. This will help your plants to grow more green and lush.
19. Deter snail and slugs
It may be difficult to eliminate slugs and snails in your garden. However, with Epsom salt, it is easy to get rid of snails and slugs. Just sprinkle it on their path, and they will be forced to relocate.